How to Use Camphor Oil for Acne Treatment
The camphor tree, native to China, Japan, Madagascar, and Vietnam, is an evergreen tree with red leaves that turn dark green as they mature. The oil is extracted through steam distillation of the tree’s leaves and stems, producing three types of camphor oil: yellow, white, and brown. Of these, only white camphor oil is used for medicinal purposes. Read on to learn more about the benefits of camphor oil for your skin and how to include it in your skincare routine.
Did you know that camphor is a key ingredient in many acne and pimple lotions? This crystalline substance, derived from the bark of the camphor tree, offers numerous skincare benefits, including acne prevention. Fortunately, camphor oil is also an effective home remedy for treating acne.
Is Camphor Oil Good for Acne?
Yes! Camphor is widely used in acne treatments to clear and prevent breakouts. Here’s how it works:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Camphor oil is packed with antioxidants that protect the skin from damage. This antioxidant activity also helps repair damaged skin cells, rejuvenating your skin.
- Anti-inflammatory: It helps reduce inflammation, swelling, and redness in the skin, calming acne breakouts.
- Astringent Properties: Camphor oil is a natural astringent, making it perfect for oily, acne-prone skin. It tightens pores and helps prevent them from becoming clogged.
- Balances Oil Production: Camphor oil helps regulate the skin’s oil production, keeping acne at bay for those with oily skin.
How to Use Camphor Oil for Acne
Here are some of the most effective ways to use camphor oil for treating acne.
1. Coconut Oil and Camphor Oil for Acne
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon of camphor oil
- A jar or bottle for storage
Preparation Time: 2 minutes
Treatment Time: Leave on overnight
Method:
- Mix the camphor oil and coconut oil in an airtight jar or bottle.
- Cleanse your face and pat it dry.
- Take a small amount of the mixture and massage it into the affected areas.
- Let it sit overnight.
- In the morning, wash it off with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser.
How Often: Daily
Why This Works: Coconut oil has excellent antibacterial and penetrating properties. When combined with camphor oil, it helps unclog pores and dissolve impurities, effectively clearing acne.
2. Camphor Oil Steam Massage
Ingredients:
- A pot of boiling water
- A few drops of camphor oil
- Towel
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Treatment Time: 25 minutes
Method:
- Cleanse your face and dry it.
- Boil water in a pan.
- Remove the lid and steam your face by leaning over the pot, with a towel over your head to trap the steam.
- Steam for about 20 minutes.
- After steaming, massage camphor oil into the acne-prone areas of your skin.
How Often: Twice a week
Why This Works: The steam opens up your pores, allowing camphor oil to deeply penetrate and purify the skin. Regular use will help diminish acne.
3. Camphor Oil with Castor and Almond Oils
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup castor oil
- 1/2 cup almond oil
- 1 teaspoon camphor oil
- Jar or bottle for storage
Preparation Time: 2 minutes
Treatment Time: Leave on overnight
Method:
- Mix castor oil, almond oil, and camphor oil in a jar.
- Cleanse your face and pat dry.
- Massage the oil mixture into the acne-affected areas.
- Leave it on overnight.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and cleanser in the morning.
How Often: Daily
Why This Works: Castor oil removes dirt and bacteria while hydrating the skin and promoting collagen production to heal scars. Combined with camphor and almond oil, this mixture soothes existing acne.
Camphor Oil, Rose Water, and Chickpea Flour Treatment
Essentials:
- 1/2 tsp camphor oil
- 2 teaspoons rose water
- 1 tablespoon gram flour (chickpea flour)
Preparation Duration:
- 2 minutes
Treatment Duration:
- 15 minutes
Procedure:
- Integrate all ingredients until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Cleanse your face thoroughly, then dry it gently.
- Carefully apply the mixture onto affected regions of your skin.
- Allow it to rest on your skin for approximately 15 minutes.
- Rinse off thoroughly and pat your skin dry.
Frequency:
- 2-3 times per week.
Why It Works:
Each of these elements possesses cooling properties, providing relief from inflammation and redness. Regular application tightens your pores, regulates oil production, and aids in both the prevention and healing of acne outbreaks.
Camphor Oil and Fuller’s Earth Mask
Essentials:
- 2 tablespoons Fuller’s Earth (Multani Mitti)
- 1 1/2 tablespoon rose water
- 1/2 tsp camphor oil
Preparation Duration:
- 2 minutes
Treatment Duration:
- 15-20 minutes
Procedure:
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly until a smooth texture is formed.
- Cleanse your face and pat dry before applying the mask.
- Smooth the mixture over your face as you would with any mask.
- Leave it for 15 minutes or until the mask is dry.
- Rinse your face well and pat dry.
Frequency:
- 1-2 times a week.
Why It Works:
Fuller’s Earth is renowned for its powerful acne-fighting qualities. It absorbs excess oil, bacteria, and impurities from your skin, leaving it soft and refreshed.
Key Considerations Before Using Camphor Oil
- Never apply camphor oil to broken or damaged skin, as it can lead to toxic effects.
- Avoid ingestion of camphor or camphor oil.
- The safety of camphor oil during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been well-established.
- Keep camphor oil out of children’s reach.
- Avoid using undiluted camphor oil on your face, especially if you have asthma.
While camphor oil provides useful benefits for acne treatment, it is not a standalone cure. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Dealing with acne is often challenging, especially for those whose skin care habits directly impact their complexion. Yet, these straightforward camphor oil treatments may offer some relief.
Have you tried camphor oil in your skincare routine? Feel free to share your experience!
